Wombat Nest

Just...everything

2012-01-28T00:37:00.004-05:00

Hi, everyone. It's been a while. Like a year a while. Maybe two. But still a while. And boy, has life changed since I last looked here. Really changed. Some good, some not so good. Some looking for new opportunities, some real changes. I'm not even really sure where to start. Y'all have any suggestions?

Okay, work-life then. We'll start there. So, back in February of 2011, I lost the job I'd had since 2008. Not getting into the whys, the whos, or even the damn the economies. It just happened and there it is. But, with that said, it means the past year has been pretty tough. I've been doing independent organic inspection work. I've started inspecting for about 4 different agencies somewhat regularly over the summer. But in about October that work disappears. Okay, maybe not entirely, but a lot. So my income has been significantly reduced. And that was really hard at first. I mean, a cut in income of over $25,000 is hard on a household. So, I had to find a part-time job. And I did. I've been working as a barista at a Starbuck's inside the Raleigh Marriott City Center since April, 2011. It's actually pretty cool. I have some great co-workers, some not-so-great co-workers (much like any other job, n'est pas?), and sometimes get to meet some amazing people that are guests at the hotel, like Rhiannon Giddens of Carolina Chocolate Drops. She was kind, generous with her thanks for simply getting her some tea, interested in young musicians, and, quite frankly, has such a musical voice, she even sounds like she's singing when she's speaking.

And on to trials and tribulations of OrganicGuy. He lost his shirt. Literally. Like right now, he's walking around the house without one. Okay...that's just me being silly. But he did figuratively lose his shirt. I don't know if I ever mentioned that he is/was a general contractor. And he was working on a spec house starting in 2006. It was big, and beautiful, and fit in to everything that was happening in Raleigh/the greater Triangle region of NC. It had gorgeous marble floors in some areas, and teak in others. All the teak floors were designed by OrganicGuy; things like different sizes and shades of the wood creating diamond patterns in the dining room. He did all the work himself with the exception of electrical, pluming and drywalling. That's all that was subcontracted. Everything else he did. And it was finished, with a full certificate of occupancy in October of 2008. Yeah. THAT October. The one where the housing market collapsed. Where the beginning of financial free-fall happened for so many. And no one came to look at the house when it was up for sale. We had about a half dozen walk throughs in 12 months. Then the company that financed it started foreclosure proceedings. And then OrganicGuy's company filed for bankruptcy and closed doors.

And just like that, there we were. I didn't have a full time job. He had to sell most of his tools and equipment, and had no work coming in. And it became hard to breathe. So, yeah, this blog, and a whole host of other things got neglected. But now, OrganicGuy has a job, and seems to like it. I convinced him to apply for a position in the engineering department at the hotel where my 'Bux is. He got the gig, and they really seem to like him. And my sweet guy is starting to get back to being himself again. The bankruptcy hit him hard, but we've made it through so far.

And I could go on and on about OrganicKid, and about other things happening in my life, but I think for now I'm going to stop here. Because it's late. Because OrganicKid is with her dad this weekend, and OrganicGuy just got home from work. But I am starting to feel like writing again, and may do more in the near future. And even if no one sees this, I really don't mind. This was sort of therapeutic. We'll see. But, after the past year, I'm finally in a place where I'm starting to look forward. And from here, the view is still pretty hazy, but it's clearing, and it looks like it just might be an okay year.

Christmas Cookie-ganza

2010-01-17T14:28:00.013-05:00

It really doesn't seem like it's been over two months since I last wrote. Most likely because it was the holidays, which involved concerts, cooking, and travel, and cooking and snow.

I think I'll start with just two things...Thanksgiving and cookies. And hopefully, I'll be able to add more as time goes on. See, we had a really low-key Thanksgiving here at casa del Wombat. Just OrganicGuy, his parents and me. OrganicKid was off to South Carolina and Georgia with her dad. She had a wonderful time, got to see her cousin, her grandpa, and spend quality time with her dad. Which I DO appreciate. And we were lucky enough here to be able to get the motorcycle out over Thanksgiving weekend. OrganicGuy and I spend the Saturday after the holiday driving all over Chatham, Alamance, and western Orange Counties. And, the Huskers beat Colorado. So, overall, a perfect holiday weekend.

When OrganicKid got home, we made Christmas cookies. This year we really scaled back the effort. When we started, the kitchen looked a bit like this:

And then OrganicKid and I went crazy. We spent a whole weekend melting, mixing, chopping, rolling, cutting, frosting, and anything else you can do with flour, eggs, nuts, and chocolate. Actually, we scaled back this year. Some years, we've made over 15 different types of cookies. This year, we just made a few favorites.

Just Chocolate Crinkles,

Lemon Poppy Seed cookies,

White Chocolate Macadamia Coconut cookies,

Cocoa Ginger Crisps, and Stained Glass cookies, Sugar Cookies, Chocolate Bliss, and Dark and White peppermint bark.

Unfortunately, since for some reason I never have AA batteries when I need them, I don't have any other pictures. But, they were excellent cookies. And, in her annual attempt to bribe her teachers, OrganicKid took plates of cookies to each one. But, since she's so much help in making them all, I have to let her. See, she's all kinds of help:

She mixed, spatula-ed, cut, decorated,

and, most importantly....

Provided quality control. MMMM....cookies......

Sesame Street

2009-11-13T09:00:00.003-05:00

I'm a Sesame Street Kid. No, I wasn't on the show. I've never even been to New York, where I always assumed Sesame Street was. But I was raised in part by Sesame Street. I'll admit it. I watched it as a kid. And somehow it's the one show that no one denies. People might say they never watched Gilligans Island or the Brady Bunch, Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, or the Shazam/Isis hour on Saturday morning. But nearly everyone I know that is my age cops to Sesame Street. We all saw it.

I really don't remember watching Sesame Street for myself. I DO remember watching with my younger sister. I remember "La, la, la, la Lemon." When on the way to the grocery store, sometimes I confuse my daughter by saying that we need a loaf of bread, a container of milk, and a stick of butter. I've wanted to attend a ladybugs picnic. I cried when Mr. Hooper died. I cried even harder when Jim Henson died. When he did, I knew I was a grown up. And I knew the world has lost one of its greatest magicians. One who could take a mundane object or concept, like a number, and make it fun. Who understood that in a child's world, magic happens every day, and animals talk, and not all monsters are scary.

So, I just wanted to say, Happy Birthday Sesame Street. And thank you for 40 years of magic.
And for all of you, one of my favorite Sesame Street moments:

Wednesday Night

2009-10-21T19:58:00.003-04:00

And once again OrganicKid is cooking. Tonight it's rosemary and lemon roasted salmon with roasted asparagus with lemon butter. MMMMMMMM. I am SUCH a lucky mom to have such a talented kid.

And...she's also getting her musical chops. She's playing the double bass violin. Yes, the big thing. She's currently playing on a 1/2 size instrument, and it's STILL by far the hugest thing in our house! But she's definitely learning. Earlier tonight I was listening to Beethoven echoing through the house. I could recognize it. And it sounded good. There's a concert coming up in December, and I'm looking forward to it. I remember when I started playing the flute. I don't recall if I felt sympathy for my parents, but now I do. I KNOW when I first started, it was squeaky, and high pitched. It couldn't have sounded nice. But I practiced, and they put up with it. I feel so lucky that OrganicKid chose a nice mellow instrument. I don't think it can sound bad. Yeah, it can be a bit squeaky now an again. But the sound is so deep, and full, and, really, calming. I just hope all the other kids in the beginners orchestra is putting in the same practice time OrganicKid is, because I know she'd be disappointed if the concert doesn't sound that good because everyone else BUT her isn't as dedicated. I'm not too worried, though. One of OrganicKids pals is also in the orchestra, playing cello, and they're planning on getting together this weekend to practice, and perhaps enter a beginning strings competition. I'm certainly pulling for them! And I need to get a camera that does decent video before the concert. Because I know how my first concert probably sounded, and I want to be able to send the video to my mom, so she can compare it to the pain I put her through....

The New Chef of the House

2009-09-09T21:36:00.003-04:00

Organic Kid has decided she wants to cook. She's made up her mind that one night a week, she will be the one to get dinner on the table. She decided this about a month ago, and for the last three weeks, Wednesday night is her night to cook. I'm there, helping if I'm asked to help, answering questions, lifting heavy things, being a second pair of hands. But I'm NOT planning menus, making grocery lists, or any of that. I'm somewhere below the sous chef. I'm the background noise. And I'm loving it.

Better yet, SHE'S loving it! And Organic Kid is really stretching; making dishes that I was afraid to even try until the past 5 or 10 years. She's making complex Indian dishes; Roghan Josh (with lamb no less, not even batting an eye and thinking of making it easier with a more familiar protein) and Chicken Korma. Last Wednesday, she went all out, and made not only the main course supplemented with an easy side like a salad, she made chicken stuffed with goat cheese and herbs, and asparagus with hollandaise. Yeah....Organic Kid made home made hollandaise. Emulsification at its most tricky, what with the raw egg and hot melted butter and all. And it did not curdle one bit. And it did not break one bit. It was a smooth, elegant sauce, with just the right vinegary tang meshed with the anise-y tarragon. Perfect hollandaise. Hells, I can't even do that consistently! And Organic Kid got it right the first time.

This morning, before school, she already started combing through cookbooks. She pulled out three different vegetarian ones (including the classic Moosewood Cookbook...Organic Guy came into our marriage bringing the first printing of that, to match with my classic 60's version of Joy of Cooking). Organic Kid isn't completely sure what the plan is yet for Wednesday. But she's planning something. And I for one can't wait!

It's All Good

2009-07-23T13:51:00.006-04:00

Okay, I found a new festival. Organic Guy and I decided to forgo Bonnaroo this year. Ticket prices increased significantly, and yeah, like everyone else, we are trying to cut spending. But we couldn't fathom a music-less summer (especially Organic Guy who has attended at least one big festival concert every year since 2000 (maybe 1999, but he doesn't remember for sure). So we checked out All Good, in Masontown, West Virginia.

We all know the old joke about West Virginia, don't we? It's the only state where their motto is a question..."Almost Heaven? West Virginia?!?!???" And then I got to the camp site. And I saw this:

And I saw this:

And this little guy came to our screen room to visit:

We also saw That 1 Guy, and Yonder Mountain String Band, and moe. and Robert Randolph, and Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 and Umphrey's McGee.

I don't know about the rest of West Virginia, but for 4 days....yeah, almost heaven sounds about right.

Insurance Fools

2009-07-22T10:53:00.004-04:00

Okay. Just last night, we finished cataloging the personal items lost in the fire. When an 800+ square foot building is primarily used for storage, it's AMAZING how much stuff is in there. We talked to the insurance guy about just a flat amount of money for rebuilding and replacing. We really didn't want to go into the personal items too much because it would take forever. We would have to sort through piles of rubble that had been pushed out of the Rec Room down the hill by the firefighters. We would have to photograph everything, showing the level of damage. We would have to look up many many things. The insurance guy said ITEMIZE! Okay. So we did it.

For the last 6 weeks (with one break for going to Allgood, and it was SO WELL WORTH IT! More on that later), Organic Guy (with the help of Organic Kid, 'til she went to visit her dad for the summer) dug through piles. Had clipboards and many notebooks. Wrote down many many things. Tried to find serial numbers. Looked for model information. Washed things that would just be thrown away, trying to determine what it was. For the past week, I've looked things up as Organic Guy read them off. Looked up replacement cost. Looked up auction prices for things that can't be replaced. Contacted an antique dealer we know and sent before-and-after pictures. Learned more about reloading equipment than I ever thought I'd need to know. Learned more about Organic Guy's mom's life before retirement, and decided I wanted to spend hours talking to her about her life (that woman is AMAZING!!), and getting it all written down, because she's been such an adventurous spirit her whole life. And then, I've been creating a huge spreadsheet.

Last night, at about midnight, while watching South Park re-runs (I LOVE South Park!!), we finished the list. And totaled it. And gasped. Every dollar figure can be backed up, we can look it up somehow (and I am SO GLAD I have family that works at Cabela's, because I thought of them while looking up stuff, so that became the source of dollar figures for all camping, hunting, reloading, fishing, pet gear, which comprises about a third to a half of the whole list). And we found out something important.

Insurance agents are fools. The agent that told us to itemize...yeah, okay, we did. And now that flat figure we suggested...umm...it's doubled. That's right. We WAAAYYYY underestimated the value of the stuff that was in the Rec Room. We underestimated HUGELY. They've already determined the construction cost. So this huge spreadsheet that we're sending today, it's all above and beyond that. Actually, the total of items exceeds the construction cost. We're anticipating getting challenged on some items. We now have BINDERS of information for any dollar figure found on the web. We have a Cabela's catalog to hand them. We will walk through Lowes and Home Depot with them. Like I said, every single number has something backing it. I think they're going to be very, very, very sorry they told a stubborn, detail-oriented, person who likes knowing ALL the rules because it's easier to figure out how to get around them to itemize.

The Fire

2009-05-27T08:33:00.017-04:00

Okay, I mentioned it briefly, so here it goes. The Fire. With pictures. And background. This won't make any sense without the background.

Organic Guy's parents own about 10 acres of land in Wake County in NC. One of the borders is a creek that leads to a local lake that has great fishing. We can launch a canoe or kayak directly from the house, and paddle up to the lake. It's a beautiful spot, and one I spend a great deal of time at. The folks house has a carport that's about 3 cars wide; at the far side of the carport is essentially, a small apartment, built above 2 single-car garages that are sort of dug into the hillside below the house. That apartment has long been called the Rec Room, due to Organic Guy's dad's plan to put in a pool table and have poker nights back in the 70's. Never happened, but Organic Guy turned it into his own little place some time along when he was in high school. I've also mentioned that Organic Guy's folks are getting older, and we had been planning on moving to the 10 acres to make sure we're close by in case they need us. Recently, Organic Guy was retrofitting the place so that we could move in there for a short time until we built a new house for us. One or both of the single garages below would be turned into rooms (not something I was thrilled about, but workable), we'd be a bit tight for room, but it was only for about a year until the new place was built. One of the current uses for the place was to start our tomatoes and peppers for planting in the garden.

Organic Guy came home one night after working over there. Had dinner, played cards or something with Dani, went to bed. About 1 AM the phone rings. He grabs it, sits bolt upright, and jumps out of bed. All he says is "there's a fire" and he's out the door. When he gets home, smelling of smoke, looking exhausted, all he says is "The Rec Room is gone. It's gone. Everything is gone." I ask about the folks, and their house; all is fine there. No injuries, the fire never crossed the carport, so their house was not touched at all. That was the good news.

The bad news is that Organic Guy was not kidding. The Rec Room is gone. It now looks looks like this:

There was something wrong with the wiring on the light being used to grow the tomato transplants. Something sparked. Something caught. And it started burning. Organic Guy had many, many things stored in the Rec Room. Some of them were family antiques.

This was a family parlor organ, a pump organ from the Nineteen Teens. We think maybe 1913. It still had the original leather bellows on it. Still played. All the writing on the valves was still legible. I'm not entirely sure anyone every played it. It had belonged to Organic Guy's grandmother or great-grandmother.

This one is a glass-front hutch. We're not sure how old it is. The lower piece is all wood, pegs instead of nails, and the cabinet latch is simply a piece of wood that you turn. We think it's maybe from the 1850's or early 1860's. Fairly certain it belonged to Organic Guy's great-grandfather from before the War.

A few things that don't really hold an sentimental value, but where things that were used, things that we just had, for whatever reason. Organic Guy's Thorens turntable from college (and still played great!). These were a pair of hunting bows, and Organic Guy's creeper he used for changing oil and whatever other car stuff he did.

We lost camping gear (a family sized tent and a screen room, in addition to spikes, lanterns, camp stove...I still have my little dome tent, but that's it), a full Encyclopedia Britannica from 1925, of course all the tomato transplants, but worse, all the seed for summer direct seeding, and all my seed for fall crops (no broccoli, zucchini, butternut squash, or Brussels sprouts this year....). We found out weird things don't burn:

This is somewhat tough to see. But yes, those are cellophane wrapped starlight mints. The cellophane didn't melt, the mints still look pristine. And, in the bottom left corner of this picture, what so you see? Yes! Charcoal briquettes! They don't burn! The bag that had been holding them, the paper bag, GONE. No trace of it, but Organic Guy had just purchased two bags, one was stored on the patio by the grill, the other stored in the Rec Room.

So, for now, we're cleaning up. We're cataloging what's lost. We're working with the insurance guy. We're talking with some friends who are builders like Organic Guy, some he's known since high school, who want to help rebuild. We're finding the silver lining. Like we don't have to cram into a too-small space and build a bigger one. We can just find something to incorporate a new structures with the existing house, and not having 2 kitchens, and 2 washers and dryers, and 2 of all kinds of stuff no one needs two of. We're jettisoning lots of stuff. Losing things really made us realize how much things can hold a person down. Heck, why do I still have some college textbooks? We actually found out that between the two of us, we had (mostly in storage) three espresso makers, and 2 coffee grinders. And we're learning about the important stuff. The main part of the house is fine. Organic Guy's parents are fine. A little sad, like us, but fine. And the motorcycle. The one that's normally parked right outside the sliding door leading into the Rec Room...it was at our house that night. It had been a beautiful evening, and Organic Guy just happened to ride it home. We think it's a sign. So, stay posted...I'll be writing soon about the impending NC-NE-SD-ND-MN-IL-IN back to NC motorcycle trip we're planning for August. Seriously. We may be asking to flop on your couch.

Quick Update

2009-05-23T17:27:00.002-04:00

I haven't typed anything recently. For anyone who tries to keep up with me here, I'm really sorry. In any event, big things going on.

I'm working on a post about a farm-to-fork conference I attended, a good event, with some sobering news.

Also, the little, temporary house that Organic Guy, Organic Kid and I were moving into, over on the 10 acres Organic Guy's parents own...that's not happening right now. For those that weren't aware, we were moving for a year or two to a 2-br apartment type place while Organic Guy built us a house on the land. He was remodeling the structure to make sure we all had some room. Earlier this week, it burned. We still aren't 100% sure what caused the fire, but the structure is a total loss. So, we're re-thinking plans, figuring out what was lost, and going from there. But for now, will be staying at the house we're renting now. I'll be typing about this, too.

Hopefully something real will be posted soon!

Love my Job

2009-04-01T18:24:00.009-04:00

I really love my job. There are many many reasons for this. I enjoy working in the organic foods industry; it makes me feel like I'm doing something to preserve the Earth for OrganicKid and any of her potential children. I really care about many of the farmers that I come into contact with. I respect what they do. They're warm, funny, generous, dedicated folks.

I also really appreciate all my co-workers. They're a great bunch of people, who work hard, like to laugh, and know how to say thank you. They give me energy to keep going when I'm having a bad day, and understand when I'm in a good, goofy mood. I am so lucky to be working with this bunch.

But, I have to admit, one of the things I most appreciate is that I can do my job from my home in North Carolina. The head office for my company is in North Dakota. Somewhere between Fargo and Bismarck. Somewhere in a town with 7 churches and 3 bars. And... as of this winter, snow. They have snow. They have lots and lots and lots of snow. They have approximately 400% more snow than an average year. Yes. You read that right. 400%. Close to (if not above, by now) 100 inches of snow. Again, yes, you read that right. 100 inches of snow. I can't even imagine this. They're in the process of requesting to have fewer than the mandated 180 days of school. Because if they don't get this request, they may not have more than a week or two of summer. They've had to close school so often this year. So, what does 100 inches of snow look like? It looks sorta like this:

That's looking out my boss's front door. I'm not sure when they started avoiding using the front door. My guess is December. That's part of the problem. It started snowing in early November. And it really hasn't stopped. It hasn't gotten warm. Generally, North Dakotans can count on a warm snap some time in January, and another in February. One that starts the melting process. Oh, it'll snow again after those warm ups. And it'll get cold again. But it starts melting, so some of that snow goes away. This year it hasn't really happened. It hasn't warmed up. I was in California for a week in January with one of my North Dakota co-worker gals, Janine. It was 40 below zero the night before she left. That's air temp, not wind chill. The wind chill made it colder. Like 100 inches of snow, I can't even imagine this. I can't imagine what 40 degrees below zero would be like. Except damned cold. Colder than any human should have to even try to survive.

In March, finally things started warming up. But, when it gets warm, where does 100 inches of unmelted snow go? In North Dakota, it goes here:

That's right. It goes camping!

Here's the fun part...a few days after this photo was taken, guess what happened? Yeah. It snowed again. Happy days, man. I tell you, these North Dakotans are tougher than me. I couldn't hack it. So, what did I do when these poor folks I work with were dealing with snow, and floods, and more snow? I did this:

I went to an organic growers school in western North Carolina. Where a coat wasn't necessary. Where the sun was shining. Where the classes ended early enough each day to get some hiking in. Like I said, I love my job. But I think a good part of that is due to the fact that they don't make me live in North Dakota....

Terrified of Dirt

2009-03-24T20:39:00.003-04:00

Okay, I'm not really scared of dirt. However, my mother is coming to visit. And I'm not a great housekeeper. I'm not the world's worst housekeeper, not by any stretch of the imagination. But I just don't like cleaning (granted, who does?), and I find things to do to avoid it. Like type up blog posts, or something.

However, like I said, my mother is coming to visit. So, of course, I have to clean. I spent this evening in the kitchen, doing dishes and trying to figure out where to put all the stuff that accumulates on the counter. Organic Guy was a great help, and organized the liquor and wine bottles. What a guy. Of course, he also brought home daffodils for me tonight, so he's really completely off the hook. Organic Kid cleaned her bedroom (whatta gal), and helped a bit in the kitchen too. And she got all her homework done early, and cleaned out her snake's aquarium, so she's definitely in my "great kid" column right now.

Ya know, the funny thing is, I'm struggling with how much cleaning I should do. I have a difficult relationship with my mom. I'm hoping this visit will mend some fences, will open up lines of communication. But at the same time, I don't know how much I want to disrupt my normal routine. I mean, I do laundry so that we have clean clothes, and get those put away. I do the dishes and wipe down counters and sweep and vacuum. But if books or papers get piled on the counter, I don't worry about it too much, and put them away when I get a chance. If those little pan thingies under the burners aren't sparkling, I don't worry about it. I clean them when I clean the oven. I pile newspaper on the corner of the fireplace, and take out whole bunches of recycling at once. I don't stress over dusting. Actually, I consider dust a historical reference point. If I dusted, how would I know where things go? Not dusting leaves a good reference! I keep the food put away, but the counter may have a toaster and a cutting board and a blender on it. Right now, I'm thinking I should clean it all. Everything should sparkle. But I also want my mom to accept my life as it is.

So. I think I'll just keep doing what I'm doing....avoid it all while creating a new blog post. Elegant answer to a unsolvable situation, n'est-ce pas?

Grey and Good

2009-03-13T10:24:00.002-04:00

I woke up this morning, and it was dark. It shouldn't have been, there should have been the first morning light peeping through the window. I thought, maybe I just woke up extra early. Jumped in the shower, and figured it would be light when I got out. Nope, still dark.

Figuring I just wasn't awake, I wandered into the kitchen, and thought of making coffee. That's when I heard it. That plink, plink, plink sound. Stared out the window (into the darkness). Realized the darkness was just clouds. The plinking was rain. Slow, soaking, ground-drinking rain. So very beautiful!

I finished getting the coffee going, walked slowly in the rain to get the paper, came back in, got steaming coffee, sat down and closed my eyes. Savored that plinking sound, that feeling of rain water seeping through my hair to my scalp. Licked my lips, tasting the raindrops there. Listened and listened to that plinking sound.

I love the rain. And now that the spring garden is all planted, I love it all that much more. It's so perfect, such a long soaking rain after planting so many good veggies. And perfect for a quiet Friday at home, just me and my coffee.

And the sound of the falling rain.

Not So Long Ago

2009-03-09T23:28:00.005-04:00

Saint Patrick's Day. I've always loved that holiday. Its always been about spending good times with good friends. And I vividly remember the anticipation leading up to Saint Patrick's in 1998. The day was circled in green (of course) on the calendar. I had a doctor's appointment on a Friday shortly before St. Patricks. I remember how he told me to take it easy. There was a big winter storm blowing up, and I didn't need to be out and about. Of course, I believed that he meant it was perfectly fine for me to go shoot pool with my husband (the one at that time, not OrganicGuy), and my buddy Mark. I'd known Mark since I'd been a wee snot-nosed brat in 9th grade. He's still a good friend, and one great guy.

While playing pool, we started talking about plans for St. Patrick's. I demurred, saying I would likely be busy. Mark and the husband started talking about another friend, Jason, and his idea for trick-or-treating for St. Patricks. You know...go door to door, and ask for treats. Yeah, I know what you're all thinking...didn't you say St. Patricks, not Halloween? Saint Paddys with the green beer and leprechauns and all that? Yes, I did say that. And you would generally be right.

But you may not know Jason. He's a 6'6" redhead, who has a killer Irish accent. He wanted to go door to door claiming to be a leprechaun, and that the house we were at was hiding his pot 'o' gold. He went on like this for a while, making all of us laugh. "Where's me pot o gold?" he'd cry. He'd answer himself too..."Hey buddy (spoken in a flat Nebraskan accent), ain't'cha kinda tall to be a leprechaun?" "Oh-Hoo," (Jason again, Irish again) "And ain't'cha a bit of a thief and all, stealin' me gold, to be claimin' to know about leprechauns." On and on it went. Until, finally, he did it...he knocked lightly on my stomach, and said "You in there, you haven't seen a pot o gold, have ye? Is there a pot o gold in your mummy's belly???" Yes, he was talking to my soon-to-be-born child. The one that was due on Saint Patrick's Day. I laughed. I gasped for air. I begged him to stop. I laughed some more. I bitched about how pregnant women are incontinent, with pea-sized bladders, and raced to the bathroom. Okay, I waddled. Not much racing at 9 months pregnant.

Anyhow, it did snow that weekend. And snow and snow. The previous October, we'd had one of the most damaging snowstorms Lincoln Nebraska had ever seen. 24+ inches of wet snow, on trees that hadn't lost leaves yet. Massive power outages, schools closed for a full week. This storm, the March storm, the one to create a perfect bookend for the October storm, wasn't quite as bad. Only about 15 inches of snow. Started on Saturday, kept going for about half of Sunday. I spent the weekend on the couch stroking the belly and saying "If you just wait until Daddy has the drive cleared, I promise I will take you out to eat anywhere you want for your 16th birthday present." She listened; Dad got the drive cleared Sunday night. Went to work Monday AM. Went home Monday PM. Had supper. Got up from the couch to put some dishes in the sink, and woosh. Uh...honey...that moment can seem such a cliche, but that's exactly what I felt. Honey, the water broke. No, not the sink...yeah, get the keys. I've got my bag.

And then I waited. And waited. And waited. Monday night turned into Tuesday morning. And Tuesday afternoon. With the help of a great hospital staff, and good drugs, the then-husband and I wiled away the hours debating the various strengths and weaknesses of each bracket of the NCAA tourney (hey, don't be like that...it WAS right after Selection Sunday, and I've always been a sports geek!). And then, at 6:15 the Tuesday night (and yes, I'm leaving out the details, believe me you don't want any more details), OrganicKid made her presence known to the world. All red, and screaming, and irritated at being bugged by all these people she didn't know. And just beautiful. Perfect little fingers and fingernails. The perfect size, the perfect shape. And I was immediately in love.

It's now 11 years later. OrganicKid is now pretty much as tall as me (she loves this fact), wears my shoes and shirts to school as often as she thinks she can get away with. She's blond and blue-eyed, tall and slender, funny, bright, creative, and I'm in awe of her every day. I couldn't imagine life without her in in. And I firmly believe the world is a better place, because OrganicKid is a part of it.

She's goofy, she's getting to be a great cook, and I'm so proud of her. And I was right. I was kinda busy that Saint Patrick's Day. I was learning how to be a mom worthy of such a great kid.

Happy birthday OrganicKid. And just remember, all your life long, your mom loves you.

Once a Month

2009-03-09T19:24:00.002-04:00

Okay, now it's time for my monthly blog update. Let's see...what has happend since last post? The garden's been started (planted peas, asparagus crowns, and potatoes, need to get lettuce and radishes in). Work has been busy, been to Canada, to California, to Rocky Mount (okay, that's in NC), going to Boone, Asheville and North Dakota soon. OrganicKid turns 11 (tomorrow!! eek!), can wear my shoes, and is nearly as tall as me.

Oh, yeah. I joined facebook. because I'm an idiot. because janda convinced me. because i have an overwhelming need to feel like I'm in junior high, and not one of the cool kids. because i've heard that it's a great way to reconnect with people. Okay, that last one is true. I've reconnected with some amazing folks from my past, and been happy to have done so. So, if you actually read this, and if I have facebook-ed you down already, and you want to friend me (and I still believe that friend should NEVER EVER be a verb), feel free!

Super Sunday

2009-02-02T17:41:00.006-05:00

I love the Super Bowl. Seriously. I love the over-the-top-ness of it all. I love the hype, the maniacal fans, the pedantic announcers, the crazy anticipation of the commercials. Love it all.

Used to love it more in the 80's and 90's of course, back when my team won more often. They've been "rebuilding" for so long, they damned will better have the Taj Mahal when the decide they're done "rebuilding" and actually try, I don't know, try playing, maybe!?

But yesterday, boy, what a game. Actually a competitive, edge-of-your-seat game! Okay, maybe that edge-of-seat part was only the fourth quarter. But it WAS great. And I was pulling for the Steelers (don't like the Cards, have never liked the Cards. No reason why, just don't.). So, all in all, a great day for me.

But, really, being able to cook munchies and call them dinner, man, that's part of the greatness of it all. I mean, take a look at this:

Steak bites, with a red wine and rosemary sauce. All you need is a toothpick, and grab these bite-sized babies. OH MY. So much meaty goodness.

Or this:

Bacon-wrapped jalapeno thingies. Hot, bacon-y, spicy, creamy. These equal love. Okay, more than 5 of these equal love and a need for ANOTHER ice-cold beer. But, boy, love should be this hot and spicy, shouldn't it??!!

Also, my OrganicGuy made these:

Okay, so the picture is pre-cooking. But yep, home made buffalo wings. 'Cuz what's a football game without 'em? And throw in some home made guacamole, and some sort of dip that OrganicGuy makes with chili and cheese and some mole sauce, and chipotles, and I don't know what all else (but it's really tasty). That's what we called supper. Nice, eh? Bar food at home!

And some great football. Super, indeed.

The Newness of it All

2009-01-01T17:22:00.006-05:00

I LOVE New Year's Day. Maybe even more than I like New Year's Eve. Before moving to NC, I spent every adult New Year's Eve with my best buddies. Always with Lori and Matt, Maralee and Jeff. Sometimes Mark would be there. Sometimes Joe. Sometimes they would have dates. Jess came into the mix a bit later. Sara (home from Iraq, and girl, SO glad you're back in NE safe!!) I think right before I moved.

We always did the same thing...let the dads have quality time with their daughters (after they were born), while the gals would go shopping for a sparkly, shiny, New Year's Eve-y perfect outfit. We'd go to dozens of stores, try on hundreds of things, and then go home, nap, and then make ourselves beautiful. Then dinner out somewhere, and then, for many years, to Libations for martinis and cigars until the New Year rang in. So much fun. So much dancing. So many drinks.

This year, not so much. Organic Kid is getting over a cold. Organic Guy is experiencing the same stress EVERY general contractor is in the current economy, so he has terrible insomnia. We stayed home. Organic Guy went to bed about 8:30. Organic Kid and I played many, many games. Pente. Stratego. National Geographic Geo Bee. Rummy. Yahtzee. At 11-ish, we turned on the TV to make sure we didn't miss the big event. At about 11:45, Organic Guy came out to the living room. We all piled into the big purple chair, and snuggled each other for a happy New Year.

Then, today. This has been great. Relaxed. More games to be played. A big breakfast of waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon. Coffee and/or hot chocolate. Organic Guy put on a pork loin to roast, and is currently making the collards and black eyed peas for a traditional southern New Year's dinner. And, best of all, this:

I still love my Huskers. And the whole first half of the Gator Bowl, they made me sweat. But they pulled it off, and my house was ringing with "Go Big Red!!" and "HENERY!!" (we love the kicker 'round here, for some reason)

Happy New Year, y'all. Health and happiness and wishes coming true for all of you.

One More Quick Thing

2008-12-27T19:44:00.002-05:00

Oh, yeah! I almost forgot! Today is my mom's birthday! I don't know if mom reads the blog (sisters? could you mention it to her maybe? or I suppose I could, but that's kinda like printing on your wedding invitations where you're registered or something).

So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!

PS. I'm sending you your birthday/christmas present on Monday or Tuesday, I promise!!

EDIT: Okay, so I'm an idiot...my mom's birthday was the 29th, not the 27th...but I'm still sending that present! and yah, one of my sisters pointed out my error. What are sisters for if not finding my faults!?!?

Suggestions?

2008-12-27T19:28:00.002-05:00

Okay, OrganicKid gets home from her Christmas with her Dad tomorrow. So, our little family will be celebrating some time over the next week. I need a couple of suggestions from y'all...primarily when and what.

We need to figure out what day to have our gift-opening and family big dinner. It can't be New Years Day, because from 1 to whenever, I'm too busy to cook. It's the HUSKER game, for goodness sake, and I'm CERTAINLY not missing their first New Year's Day bowl game for several seasons! And I don't think OrganicKid wants to miss it either. And OrganicGuy is getting his Go Big Red chops, too. So that day's out. New Year's Eve we're probably going out so that night is out too. I have to be back to work on the 2nd. So, anyone have any suggestions?

The other help I need is what to cook. OrganicKid does not want turkey. She's specifically put her foot down and said she's had turkey for Thanksgiving, turkey with her Dad's parents, and turkey with her step-mom's parents. She COMPLETELY TURKEYED OUT, thank you very much (emphasis hers...). So, I'm not sure what to make. What does everyone else thing? Throw a menu out to me. I promise I'll give you a shout out in the blog if I pick any of your ideas!!

Oh, and for all the folks back home in Husker country...OrganicGuy and I had the motorcycle out today for a ride. Not that I'm rubbing it in at all. But it's December, and we went out riding. Life is GOOD!

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-26T14:29:00.005-05:00

Okay, so I might actually start typing more. Hopefully. Maybe once a week. That's my goal. Of course, since it isn't New Year's yet, I do have a week to change my mind, right? Right?

Anyhow. I'm going to try to post some more stuff. More about Organic Kid and how she's growing so fast. She's off with her Dad right now, in the desert southwest. I'm here in NC, looking at the dreary grey sky, and wondering why the weather couldn't have been the same as yesterday (in the 60's and sunny). We contemplated going for a ride on the bike, but decided against it, and to ride today. We're stupid. Okay, I'm stupid. Organic Guy is wise and wonderful and steady as always. In any event, today, just not riding weather.

And right now, I'm eating the MOST AMAZING leftovers in the WORLD. We decided to do something a bit different for Christmas dinner this year. So, I make Cornish game hens. No leftovers from those. But to go with it, I made mustard-bacon Brussels sprouts (thank you, Maralee! Your recipe is a family favorite), glazed carrots, and the source of the most amazing leftovers, a mushroom risotto. OH....that risotto turned out so perfect. Creamy. Aromatic, with the earthiness of the mushrooms and the tang of the cognac (yes, cognac...just lucky I had some around the house). Warm and warming. Here's what it looks like:

Oh, my. Just as good on day two. And as a heads up, there will probably be more food postings soon, as Organic Kid and I made a dozen different varieties of Holiday cookies this year. Too much fun! And I can't help but share! Let me know if you want a recipe!

Sadness and confusion.

2008-10-16T01:26:00.002-04:00

I got a tough phone call today. My ex, OrganicKid's dad, called. His mom passed away this morning. OrganicKid is in pain. She adored her grandma. And grandma adored her. I spent a goodly chunk of the evening curled up on the porch, watching the sun set, and letting her just talk, and cry, and cuddle. I'm so thankful I could be there for her, and just be calm and loving and let her work through all she was feeling.

But, at the same time, this woman has hurt me terribly over the years. She has said patently untrue things. She has accused me of not just poor, but abusive parenting. She made these charges in speaking with my family, and, at one point, in court. Her suit was found to be without merit, no charges even gave rise to a charge of unfitness, and even on appeal the whole thing was dismissed. But now, I have to drive OrganicKid to the funeral. And I have to see the my ex-mother-in-law's family. According to Ex, his fam does not know about my issues with his mom. Hell, she took the ex to court too, same charges! There's more estrangement on his part than mine. I could simply write them off. Not related any more.

Now, here it is. I have to deal with this. I have to see people I just don't want to see, and have no desire to even speak to. I will do this for OrganicKid. And she will not see how difficult it will be for me to be around this family. Because that's what being the mommy is. That's what being a grown up is all about. I have to admit, tho, that I'm happy beyond words that OrganicGuy will be coming with me, and we're probably going to get a good meal and a bottle of wine on one night when OrganicKid is with dad and his family. Nothing like the vino to ease the pain...

Big Changes

2008-10-11T09:05:00.003-04:00

Hi, to the 6 or 7 people that actually read this!

Sorry I haven't written soon. But there's some big changes going on at the Nest. First of all, the Nest will be moving in the next month or two. OrganicGuy is doing some remodeling at the Ponderosa (his parent's house/land), and we're moving over there. We need to do this. The 'rents are getting more frail, and are having trouble cooking for themselves, and hence, are eating crap. Okay, not literally crap. But frozen pop in the oven meals. TV dinners. Calling a banana a full meal for the whole day. I want to be able to help with the cooking, to make sure they're getting good food. But this means big changes at the Ponderosa. OrganicGuy is taking what is essentially a 1-BR bachelor bungalow, and turning it into a 2-BR family house. With a fully functioning kitchen (right now it has a toaster oven, microwave, and fridge. That's all the appliances). Our kitchen table and couch would not fit in the place at the same time. OrganicKid needs her own room. And we need an office. A big enough office for all his construction work stuff (HAH! In this economy, like he's able to get any work. NO ONE is building/remodeling/anything. But let's not go there), and for my home office. Which leads to the next big change.

I'm changing jobs. I've taken a position where I'll be working full time for an organic certification agency, and will be working from home. No more driving in to the office each day. And better yet, a LOT less time on the road doing inspections. This year, I averaged probably 10-15 days a month on the road. Yeah, like half my time. And tried to raise a 10-year-old OrganicKid. And be a good wife to an OrganicGuy. It wasn't working any more. But I've gotten a wonderful offer from a wonderful company, one that I believe in and respect, one that has strong management, and trusts employees, and has a vision for farming and eating in America that I agree with. I'm really really excited abotu this opportunity. This new opportunity starts the first Monday in November (hmmm....the day before the election, with a whole new change for America...nice dovetailing, eh?) And, since I'll be home more, maybe I'll be able to get more posts up. WHOOP!

Like a Bee

2008-08-12T17:18:00.007-04:00

Busy busy busy! Back from one swing to the Mountains, and heading off on another tomorrow. And looking forward to eventually getting all my reports written! But all the trips have just been beautiful! One of the farms is at the top of a ridge, and so many rabbits were running across the road as I drove up. Another farm is farmed by a woman that I want to be when I grow up (okay, IF I grow up!). She lives completely off the grid. Has a 12-volt battery in the back of her truck that she hooks up if she needs electricity, but generally lives within the rhythms of the sun and land. Raises pretty much all of her own food, including eggs, chicken (of course), hogs. Has goats for milk. And a beautiful farm, and an even more beautiful outlook and attitude about life. She's all about LIVING. Doesn't worry about mortgages, or IRAs or what the neighbors think. She LIVES. I want to live like that. I'm just not sure I have the guts.

And the views there! Oh, I would love to live with a vista like this:

Or this:

These two pictures are from a farm that grows tobacco (okay, no anti-smoking advocates, please! I just inspect 'em, I don't tell 'em what to grow, and I sure as heck don't question a farmer's right to make any money!). I honestly think there are few things on the planet with the charm of an old burley tobacco drying barn. All the chinks in the walls letting in the light and air, the old, old wood holding the tobacco up to dry, the fact that the smell makes me think of my grandfather, and his pipe. The farm I was at had just such a barn. This one:

Here's another angle:

Like I've said elsewhere, THIS is where I really want to be. This is where I think Organic Guy and Organic Kid and I will end up. Somehow. No, not growing tobacco (that's WORK, man!). But raising our chickens and gathering our eggs. And seeing the mountains as the first rays of the sun stroke the trees, burning off the smoky mist that gives this area it's name. And gives me a peace to keep on moving forward.

Hopefully I'll remember my camera tomorrow, because I KNOW I'll be in another completely beautiful place, much like this! And I'll try to remember to share!

Travels on Farms

2008-07-17T16:51:00.004-04:00

I'm getting prepped for a big week of inspections. That's what I get paid do. I inspect stuff. Not just any stuff though. Organic farms. Organic food processors. Organic cows. Okay, and steers and goats and sheep and and and.

I like saying "and and and." It reminds me of the movie The Committments, and watching that in college one night at by buddy Matt's house with him and my other buddy Michelle, and we each had our own bottle of Boone's Farm wine. Bad wine, but good times, man. Good times. Too cool that "Outspan Foster" now has a Oscar.

Anyhow. This big inspection trip. I'll be out in the part of North Carolina that's commonly called the "High Country" for a week. It's up in the mountains around Boone. Gorgeous country. These are some of the highest mountains in on the east coast. In some places, the farms still use mules because it's actually easier than tractors, because some of the fields can get pretty steep. Most of the farms that I'm going to visit are between 1 and 10 acres, growing a pretty wide variety of vegetables. Most of the folks doing the farming have lived on and farmed the land for at least 20 years, and in some cases, are the second or third generation that is tilling that land. These are strong people, who live close to the earth, don't ask for much, don't have much, and love what they do. They don't farm organically because it's the thing to do right now. They don't do it because they'll get a higher premium for their crops. Of course they will, but they've been farming like this for years, premium or no. They do this because that's how it's done. This is how their parents and grandparents taught them to farm.

The smaller communities in the High Country can be pretty insular. They're wary of strangers, probably because far too often, people come from elsewhere and tell them what they're doing wrong, without any respect to the history and traditions of the area. They're doubly wary now because so many land speculators are coming and trying to grab up mountaintops to clear cut and build multi-million dollar homes for folks that will only live there a month or two each year. They're afraid of losing their way of life. They're afraid of being taxed off the land their families have cared for for a couple of generations. So, the first time I inspected in the High Country, I was nervous. I've been an organic inspector for several years, but I knew that I had to approach these folks with respect; not really delicately, but being able to speak their language, and being willing to learn about who they are and what they do. The second inspection I did was this older gentleman. He has deep roots in the area. And commands deep respect from the farming community. "Oh!" folks would say to me "You're inspecting HIM. Good luck." And I did inspect him. And we had a great inspection. He was tickled to show me his barn, and new cooler, and the beautiful young broccoli he'd planted. And I was happy to stand with my arm shoulder deep in his "compost pile" and say "You know, if this really were getting fully composted, do you think it would be a bit hotter?" And this older farmer, he laughed and laughed at the little girl from the city that would now go home smelling like, well, his compost heap. And he was tickled that I wasn't afraid to stick my arm in a pile of shit and straw and vegetable scraps and talk to him plain. After the inspection, he said "You're okay, little lady. You stop up here and see me whenever you want. My home's open to you." Now, I look forward to this trip every year. I may not inspect this particular farmer every time, but I do try to stop by just to see how he's made it through the past year, and so he can show me whatever new projects he has. I'm leaving Monday morning. And I can't wait to get there.

And for those of you that got sidetracked by The Committments I mentioned up above, here's your moment or two of zen. If you don't know this movie, watch. Egad, this is a great movie!

And this:

Now that's music!

Cookin Mojo

2008-07-15T09:16:00.003-04:00

I've been cooking a lot lately. Just been in a mood to, and now that it's high summer, there are so many beautiful vegetables out there to indulge in. So, I've been creative in the kitchen. And even more fun, I've just been making stuff up. Sure, I looked at a few recipes, but then thought "But...I'd like it this way better..." So, I make it the way my brain tells me, and just use the recipe as a guide. So, in the past few days, I've made:

Chicken burritos baked in queso fresco and tomatillo salsa
Lemon-zucchini pasta
Crispy oven-fried catfish with remoulade
Zucchini fritters and roasted potatoes (Organic Guy grilled a steak to go with this)
Quinoa salad with yellow squash, carrots, and fresh herbs
Corn macque choux with fresh corn
a really wide variety of compound butters to go on corn on the cob (I think the chipotle butter on grilled corn was the best).
Nut-crusted chicken
Grilled Mahi-Mahi, marinated in lime juice and cumin, with tomatillo salsa
Home made enchiladas (and they're STILL not as good as my dad's...and he STILL won't tell me his secret recipe!)
A sorta veggie risotto thingy. Not sure what to call this, but it had green beans, yellow squash, zucchini, carrots, and sun-dried tomatoes.

On Monday, I have to go on the road for inspections for a week, which means eating on the road. Many many restaurants. So, I won't be able to cook for a bit. I'm really glad I've been in the mood, and had the positive energy to cook lately...and I'm really going to miss it while tromping around NC and VA for a while. Hopefully I'll be able to find locally owned places to eat that are as thrilled with the summer's vegetable bounty as I have been!

Oh, yeah, if any of these things sound good, or if anything else about cooking I've posted in the past interests y'all, let me know, and I'll try to figure out how I did it, and maybe post a few recipes.

Rain Gods

2008-07-12T18:23:00.003-04:00

Organic Guy and I have learned something new about our relationship. Apparently we, when combined with his motorcycle, become North Carolina Rain Gods.

You see, we've been in a pretty bad drought throughout the whole state. Right now, it ranges from Abnormally Dry to Exceptional Drought. No part of the state is spared. As of this week, though, if you draw a line from Charlotte down to the SC border, then up to Winston-Salem and the VA border, everything east is in one of the two least severe categories. Organic Guy and I will be taking credit for this, and thank you all very much. As recently as June 24, Raleigh itself was in Extreme Drought, according to the national monitor. But, since then, we've gotten over 4 inches of rain! And we're taking at least a bit of the credit.

The last weekend in June, Organic Guy tanked up the bike, we got on, and headed out to a nearby lake, west of our house, with nice hills, trees, and lots of back roads that many of the local motorcycle riders like cruising. We pulled off to dip our toes in the lake, and it started sprinkling. We ran back to the bike, and it started raining. We realized we had no rain gear, jumped on the bike and headed off. And it really started raining. We just headed home, stripped off in the laundry room because every stitch of clothing was soaked, made a pot of coffee, and laughed. We make plans for a longer ride the next day. On Sunday, we fired the bike up, and headed north to the small town of Youngsville, where our buddy Johnny Row lives. Organic Guy, his close buddy Skull, and Johnny Row have worked together on and off for a couple years (and yes, they all have nicknames, I'll tell you some time about Two Taters and Large White). Skull had mentioned that Johnny Row (and yes, you have to say the whole thing) was having a cookout and inviting everyone over for the race, and we should come. And off we went! Got to Johnny Row's and everything was suspiciously quiet. No cars, grill off, and no guys hanging around the picnic table talking about Junior and the Busch boys, and why one is a nice guy and one's a prick. Odd. We knock, and Johnny Row answers. And he explains that they all hung out for the race the night before, and no one had any plans for todays race (which is part of why NASCAR confuses me...they race two days in a row? with the same guys? huh?). Johnny Row has some left over watermelon, tho, so we hang out at the picnic table, chat, eat watermelon and spit seeds. After a bit, Organic Guy and I decide to head back on in, and stop at a local restaurant/watering hole that's owned by the same guy that customizes bikes at the shop next door. Big motorcycle hangout. On the way back south, though, we see something bad. And dark. And hanging over all of Raleigh, and headed our way. Yep, another storm. And this one is big. It opens up. And cars are going past us, sluicing us with water. I hang on tight, we sent up a few water rooster-tails ourselves, and decide to hie on home, and heck with stopping. We just want to dry off! So, two rides, two rain storms. But the next weekend is a long one, with the 4th, so we'll have plenty of time to ride, right?

On the weekend of July 4th, we planned to take the bike out. On Friday, Organic Guy parked the bike in the carport, the plan being riding around the Triangle, and watch the various firework displays. As soon as we changed to jeans and helmets, the sky turned black. And not due to nightfall. Local television stations started sounding alarms, and the heavens opened. All firework displays were put on hold until Saturday night. So, Saturday, we plan on heading out, same as Friday's plan, check the firework displays. At about 7ish we stop for supper, and it starts sprinkling again. Okay, heck with it. We head home. Not too wet ourselves, but definitely, the rest of Raleigh was. Not sure still if any fireworks happened last weekend. So, on Sunday, we decided we're going out on the bike, come Hell or high water (and more likely the second). It's Organic Guy's birthday, and he wanted to celebrate on the road a bit. So, early in the afternoon, we turn on the TV. The only rain, according to the radar, is north of us. Some to the direct west, but that's tracking north too. Check various websites. Same radar. Nothing south. Clear and sunny skies. Finally! We hop on, and head south. We drive toward a little town about an hour away, Carthage. It has a really well preserved historical district for puttering around in, and gorgeous old houses, and rolling hills with farms just outside town. And the ride out is beautiful. At one point, we round a curve, and are treated to a field full of sunflowers, and a small farmhouse, sitting just behind all the flowers, like a picture. Just breathtaking. We turn around to head home. Happy that we've finally gotten a good ride in. Planning on calling Organic Guy's parents to come celebrate the birthday with some steaks on the grill. And, just as we get out of Carthage, it happens. The sky just changes. From blue to black. Wispy white clouds to dark, angry, and filled with thunder. And it rains. So hard, harder than any other ride. So hard I'm not sure how Organic Guy can even see. Then we see an oasis. Off to the left is a little gas station. With an awning. Salvation! We can pull off somewhere dry! Then...then...this pickup with a trailer (all covered no less) pulls in, in front of us. And takes the whole awning space. No where to park the bike out of the rain. Organic Guy flips up his visor, and says "Babe, we're going for it!" And he hits the gas. Off we go, into the driving rain. As we get closer to home, we're pulling ahead of it. We finally drive out of the rain, and make it home. We're inside all of 15 minutes, and I make a mad dash to get the grill under the carport. Because the storm caught up. If we had pulled off, we would have been in the rain the whole ride home.

About five minutes after it started raining, I just started laughing. I'm not sure I've stopped laughing yet. Because we're coming out of a drought. And Organic Guy and I have discovered that, if we really want to take the bike out, we can bring the rains with us.

Bonnaroo Part 2

2008-07-02T18:26:00.005-04:00

Okay, I said I'd add more of this. Again, I was there, part of the wet, happy crowd...it had been raining cats and dogs before and during the show, and for about the first 20 minutes of the rain, Organic Guy and I were trying to stay dry by standing outside. No, not really. It's just that the tent was so crowded, we couldn't get under it. To many hippie space hogs. No, not spaced-out hippies, but idiots that sat down, spread out big blankets, laid down, spread out backpacks, and basically were space hogs. Eventually they simply just got stood on. Okay, again, not really...everyone just stood on their blankets.

This is Superjam. The name fits. Superjam is a Bonnaroo tradition, where folks that might be playing Bonnaroo get together and jam. Or sometimes someone unexpected comes in. Last year, it was Ben Harper, John Paul Jones (yes, THAT John Paul Jones, the Led Zep one), and ?uestlove. 2006 had Phil Lesh, Trey Anastasio, and Mike Gordon.

This is this year's Superjam (warning, NSFW):

This is Les Claypool (I love Les Claypool), Gogol Bordello (OH MY GOD, I fell in love with them this year!), and later in the evening, Kirk Hammett from Metallica showed up and jammed, too. The whole thing was a tribute to Tom Waits, the whole Jam was covering Tom Waits tunes. Man, Man Man! This was something to remember, and probably one of my fave Bonnaroo experiences this year. Gogol Bordello, is, if you're not sure, commonly referred to as a "gypsy punk" band. Yes, that's an accordian you hear. And a violin. I think the name fits. Check 'em out. I swear, you'll fall in love too!

Comments over Dinner

2008-06-30T14:34:00.003-04:00

So, the other night, Organic Guy and I decided to go out to eat at a new place near our house. It's an Asian-fusion sorta place, and the food was really yummy. I hadn't had duck too often before, but if it's sliced and marinated and glazed with all kinds of Asian spice goodness, I'd have it daily if I could!

But that's not what I wanted to talk about. I want to tell you about how crazy my new hubby is.

It was a hot day...even for North Carolina. We'd spent the day searching for a new sofa, because our old one (it's a 17 year old metal frame futon) has developed a list. It's not quite 45 degrees yet, but it's close. I have visions of sitting down to watch a movie, and having the darned thing collapse. We were somewhat desperate for something we could get in no more than 10 days, and this was our first major purchase together. If you haven't tried buying furniture with someone, be sure you care deeply about them before you do. It should be one of those tests couples have to pass to get a marriage license. The license should have a list of things that must be done together before a couple can marry. Items that need to be included are:

1. Purchase furniture together (because if one of you wants leather, nail studded stuff, and the other wants soft, cuddly, and something you can lay down all the way on, it's going to be a challenge).

2. House train an animal together. No, this doesn't tell you anything about whether you can raise a kid together, but it might give you an idea...

3. Suffer a potentially catastrophic illness of a family member (Organic Guy and I went through that one...you really see more about a person's character during such a time than dating for years without ever having this happen).

4. Vacation together and have something go really really wrong. Again, character shines through (and ask me some time about when we were rear-ended leaving Bonnaroo, and the trailer with all our coolers and camping gear was nearly totaled...).

5-whatever...give me your suggestions!

So, needless to say, we were tired, hot, and ready to relax when we sat down to eat. The friendly young waitress comes to our table and asked what we want to drink, even before we opened the menus. I asked for water with a slice of lemon, not being sure what I really wanted yet. Organic Guy asked for water, too. Out came two waters, both with a lemon slice perched on the rim. I squeezed the lemon, and dropped it into the water. Organic Guy asked if I wanted his, too, as he doesn't like lemon in water.

"Sure!" I chirped. "I like my water a little tart!"

He handed over the lemon slice, and looked at me, and grinned. "That's cool," Organic Guy replied. "I like my tarts a little wet!"

God, I love this guy!

Bonnaroo Post 1

2008-06-19T17:56:00.003-04:00

Okay, I'm calling this Post 1 because I'll probably post a lot of stuff like this over the next few days...or at least until I get some of my wedding photos, and can post those, too!

Anyhow, Bonnaroo, for those who don't know, is 4 days of music, generally about 150 bands, on 5 large and 3 small stages. This occurs generally the second or third weekend in June each year in south-central Tennessee. About 80,000 people are there, grooving to great music, soaking up the sun, living in tents, and trying to stay sane while using port-a-potties the whole time. Yes, this is where I spent my honeymoon. Since it WAS the honeymoon, we decided to splurge on the VIP tickets, which included food (so we wouldn't have to camp-cook), and clean, stocked, and, most importantly, air-conditioned port-a-potties. We weren't totally roughing it. But I did spend my honeymoon sleeping on an air mattress. I don't know if that says anything about my hippie credentials, but I had a great time!! Partly, because of things like this:

OH MY GOD so amazing!!! And if anyone who knows my good friend Matt, I called him during this show so he could have a listen for Father's Day. Because he's a good daddy, and I think Allison Krauss is on his allowed list. So, if you DO know Matt, let him know I posted this, so he can enjoy too.

For those who don't know, this is Allison Krauss, Bluegrass fiddler and singer extraordinaire, and Robert Plant. And if you don't know Robert Plant, there's really nothing I can do to explain him to you.

Please, enjoy...and hold on for more, including Les Claypool wearing a Elvis-ish get-up!

Still Bad

2008-06-18T09:06:00.002-04:00

Yes, I'm still a bad blogger, and not updating enough (a month! ye gads!). But this time I have an excuse! Since my last update, I've gotten married (I'm now Wombat OrganicGuy!), and been on a honeymoon with 80,000 of my closest friends. Yes, we Bonnaroo'd for it. So, when we get pics downloaded (or received from friends, or whatever), then I'll be posting much more!

Bad Blogger

2008-05-18T22:24:00.002-04:00

I have been a bad blogger. It's been a week since I've posted, and it's not like I don't have anything to blog about. It's more that I just don't have time! Hmmm...what has happened since last week? I've gotten pretty much all the wedding stuff under control, and I've gotten old. Older. Something.

Wedding stuff has gone well. I've gotten the cake ordered, Organic Kid's hair combs done, flowers for the tables taken care of (they need assembling, but that's easy). The dress is altered and hanging in the closet. Flowers are ordered, as are the tables and chairs. Just need to make sure I don't gain any weight (I think the stress will help with that), and get my house clean. Oh, yeah...and make a dinner reservation for Friday night. Brunch Sunday is taken care of, and Organic Guy is handling all the Saturday food (I won't eat until after the wedding, I'm pretty sure, nerves do that).

The old thing...I had a birthday. I decided a few years ago that celebrating birthdays after, say, 21 is kinda silly. I really try to ignore the whole thing. Not because I'm bothered by getting older (I'm actually okay with it, and am looking forward to finding a grey hair. Haven't yet, and I'm somewhat bugged by that. I know, Kwitcher Bitchin', right? They'll show up soon enough,), but because I really don't want anyone putting themselves out for me. So, what happens? My moms both actually remember my birthday on time for the first time in about a decade (and my step mom found what is probably the most appropriate birthday card for me EVER...I still giggle whenever I look at it). My kid sis sends a birthday present, kinda "just because." I don't remember the last time we exchanged gifts for birthdays. But, the necklace she got me is beautiful. And it fits me to a T. My style, my personality. It's just beautiful. And Organic Guy outdid himself. He made dinner (steaks on the grill, and twice baked potatoes...mmmmmmm!), got a cake for me, and, best of all, he signed me up for a motorcyle riders course! Yea! So, I, who is terribly uncoordinated, who has been know to walk into doors, who sometimes has to loot at my hands to tell my left from my right, will be learning to drive the motorcycle. I think this sounds great. But I'm letting y'all know first when this will happen, so you know to stay off the road!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T18:15:00.001-04:00

To all the moms out there, Pat-mom, grandmas, friends who are amazing moms, and every other mom-type person who reads this, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I hope your day is going as well as mine is...Love all my moms!

Up and Up and UP

2008-05-10T19:01:00.012-04:00

Last weekend, I had to go to Boone to pick up my wedding dress. I got a call while I was in Chicago that it was ready, and I could not wait to get home! The dress is now safely at the alterations lady, and will fit me by Monday. One more thing put together and in place and turning out right! And no, you can't see it until after the wedding.

Since Organic Kid had Friday off school, I took a day off, too, and Organic Guy, Organic Kid and I headed to the mountains. Organic Guy graduated from Appalachian State University, so he knows the Boone area well. I asked him to take us to a few good hiking spots. So, here's one of the places we were:

This is Organic Guy and Organic Kid about half way up the waterfall that we climbed up. Yes. You read that right. We climbed UP a waterfall. See all those rocks? We went from one to another to another, up and up. It was pretty amazing. Organic Kid climbed like a champ. She pretty fearless about this sort of thing, and really enjoyed herself. Here's another part of the waterfall:

This is Organic Kid and me a bit further up. We had to hike to the across the rock we're on here to the edge of the creek. From that distance the white stick behind us looked oddly like an albino snake. During the hike we saw all sorts of folks. 2 girls, probably from ASU, sunning on rocks before finals week starts. A young couple, she was wearing flip-flops and a black dress, carrying a small white dog. A family with two boys (leaping across rocks with wild abandon) and two girls (picking their way gingerly so as not to get their Crocks wet). Some folks were taking the easy path along side the creek, and some, like us, were going straight up the boulders. The ASU girls had found a rock that jutted out over the falls and created an amazing vantage point to see down the creek:

The rock right next to the falls behind Organic Kid (pretty much over her head) is where they were. We clambered over there on the way back down.

After this, we went over to the Blue Ridge Parkway (I personally believe EVERY PERSON in the US should visit this parkway at least once in their life...it's so amazingly beautiful!). We hiked an overlook that was about 1.5 miles one way, primarily vertical again. From the top, you could look down and see a hawk circling above the valley. I'd never seen a hawk from that angle. I've seen them from below, but it's pretty breathtaking to see one flying from above.

I don't think there's words for how much I love that part of North Carolina. Organic Guyand I talk pretty regularly about trying to find 3 or 4 acres up near Boone/Vilas/West Jeff area to build a house on, and move there some time. I think it's really where we both want to end up. Maybe, if we're lucky, Organic Kid will want to go to ASU. Then we'll have a good excuse to come up to visit, maybe every weekend. Of course, that's just a year or two (or 8) off...but one can still hope!

Gotta share this!

2008-05-04T11:42:00.003-04:00

So, I found a new blog that I've been reading a lot lately, the Pioneer Woman. I started by perusing the recipes there, since I love to cook. And she had this one, Pasta al la Punk-ass Betsy (named for her sister). So, I made it, and made my own little adjustments. And it ROCKED, I must say. I mean, check this out:

Is this not gorgeous??? It's pasta with shrimp, fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy tomato sauce. And it was absolutely amazing. Organic Kid snarfed it up, and I think it was Organic Guy's favorite pasta that I've made.

Lately the cooking mojo has been great. Tonight was ribs slow cooked then finished on the grill. Tomorrow will involve a cous cous salad with lemon, carrots and snow peas. I have been so happy with the cooking thing. Hopefully this is a sign of how this summer will go. Things will just hang together, be gorgeous, and make me happy.

Serendipity

2008-04-26T07:27:00.001-04:00

I'm in Chicago! Sitting in my beautiful room, 22 stories above Michigan Avenue, and Queen of all I survey! Okay...maybe not....in Chicago, that's a title probably reserved to Oprah. But a gal can dream!

Remember that job possibility I mentioned yesterday? Well, I believe all the pantheons of all the gods are smiling on me. Because during the ride to the hotel from the airport, two of my shuttle compatriots work for the National Organic Program, one of them is one of the big three directors. The young lady mentioned liking a bracelet I was wearing (thank you Organic Guy!), and we chatted about this and that. I casually mentioned the organic conference, and they both introduced themselves. They were open, and I really enjoyed the conversation. We discussed the open position, I casually mentioned I'd applied for it and that I really enjoy training, and being in a position to teach others about what the rule says and means. I like the positive energy the organic community has, and being able to be a part of that energy. I mentioned that I was the person that designed and developed the training department of one of the accredited certifying agencies, so I have strong experience in this regard. The gentleman of the pair cracked a bit of a joke that would have been heard from anyone in the organic certification game, and I riposed in a way to make him laugh. I felt like it was a good introduction.
We got to the NOP folk's hotel first, and when they got off the shuttle, the last occupant other than me or the driver, said "You must be born under a lucky star...and that went really well from my perspective." She couldn't have missed the conversation, and now I'm feeling pretty good about the whole thing. Wish me luck!

Chicago!

2008-04-25T10:47:00.004-04:00

And it's off to the big city today! Yea! I'll be in Chicago for the All Things Organic trade show and conference. I'm really looking forward to it this year. Several of my clients have booths at the show, so I'll be able to stop and say hello, and there's several workshops on export regulations, and changes to various international laws for organics, so I'll be completely up to date by next Tuesday.

And, yes, I'm actually excited by the workshops. Y'all know me...I'm a rules geek. I love love love knowing rules, and how to work them, and interpret them and apply them. Which leads me to the next little nugget of info...I've applied for a position with the National Organic Program. They're looking for a compliance officer and training developer, so I thought I'd throw my hat into that ring. It's kinda scary, though. The job is completely up my alley, making sure people follow the rules, understand the rules, and assist them in learning the rules. It's treally what I'm best at. But it's with the FEDS, ya know? It's like a real-grown-up job. And I'm nervous as hell about it. Yeah, I'm actually worried that they'll call me and want to interview me. That they'll offer me a job...not like I haven't been doing this organic thing for nigh on to ten years not. Not that I have the National Organic Program Final Rule memorized or anything. But I'm still nervous. Of course, there's one deal breaker...right now the job is posted as being open to any location. The job isn't required to be in Washington. I think this means they're just looking for the right candidate, and that they're willing to work with their restrictions. Because moving from the Raleigh area is a deal-breaker for me. We're just so happy, so settled here. Organic Kid loves her school and is doing great. Organic Guy has lived here his whole life (with the exception of a few colleges here and there outside the Triangle), his parents are here, and we need to be close to help them if necessary. I'm lucky in that regard...my stellar younger sister lives closer to my folks, and that comforts me. I know if anything happens to them, they'll have her close, and she's so great with stuff like this. A heck of a mom, a great chick in a crisis, and actually calls her sisters to let them know what's going on with the fam. Organic Guy is an only kid, so it's on us for his folks.

OH...that's my flight...gotta go..WHEE!!

Quick Info

2008-04-18T09:28:00.003-04:00

Wedding invitations are finally printed! Yea! They're being mailed this weekend. Also, our rings have arrived, and they're exactly what we wanted, and fit perfectly.

Only one hitch lately...due to our crazy landlord building Mulch Mountain in our yard (seriously...this is a pile of mulch 7 feet high, extending from the patio across the yard 25 yards or more. It isn't nice mulch, either, it's from scrub trees cleaned out of areas being developed. So there's roots, and grass clippings, and (OH JOY!) fire ants all mixed in it. So now we have a stinky, decomposing, fire and infested pile of crap wood in our back yard. And we don't really want to get married in all of that. So, we've moved the wedding to the Big House. Yep, the House that Organic Guy built, that we're still trying to sell (damn the economy!). But it has a huge yard, a beautiful grove of trees we can set a tent up in, and a huge garage for tables and chairs and eating, and finally, if it rains, it has a breathtaking Great Room to have the wedding in. So, maps will be stuffed in the envelopes. I'm starting to get excited...can ya tell!?

WARM!

2008-04-17T13:12:00.005-04:00

It has finally turned beautiful outside! We have had the most amazing, sunny days lately, with a gentle breeze blowing. Spring flowers are all showy with color, and the dogwoods look like brides decked out in their white veils. And, with the coming warmth, a Wombat's thoughts turn to grilling! I absolutely could not cook in the house the other night. So, my family was treated to this:

Aren't these the most beautiful kebobs you've ever seen? Okay, this was pre-cooking. Organic Guy and Organic Kid did not allow me to take any "after" shots, because they were too busy pushing me aside to grab and devour. Marinated the meat in some soy, mirin, seasoned rice vinegar, with peppercorns, garlic, and ginger. And OH, so good! We set up our camping table outside, and dined beneath our oak tree that shades the patio. Organic Guy and I opened a bottle of a Chateau Saint-Sulpice, and simply enjoyed. We watched the sun set while eating, staining the sky pink and gold, shading finally to a dusky purple, then dark blue, then finally, night.

Ahhh...there's nothing like cooking and enjoying, and just being a family. I can't wait for more of these nights...

Serious Frustration

2008-04-08T13:58:00.003-04:00

About a week ago, I was on top of the world, planning my upcoming wedding. It's not going to be a huge affair (I tried one of those before, it didn't stick), but a decent amount of friends and family. I was moving forward, getting things put together. I found my dress. I LOVE my dress...my sister loves my dress, my MoH asked if she could just get the same dress in a different color. So, YEA DRESS! I talked to the flower folks, and found out I'll be able to afford the few flowers I want to do. Just some corsages and bouts for the guys, and a couple of bouquets that I was planning on just grabbing a bunch of pretty flowers and putting together with a pretty ribbon. I wrote up the invitations, found beautiful paper to print it on. Organic Kid and I found a beautiful dress for her to wear, that she's excited to wear (from a kid most comfortable in shorts and t-shirts).

And then things started going south.

It started with the caterer. Organic Guy has spoken to a collegue whose parents cook professionally for pig pickin's (this was the heart of the plan for the wedding, the polka pig pickin). He said that they do the pig, the sides, provide tables and chairs, and would even look into getting a tent arranged. We were thrilled! One-stop shopping for all the post-wedding revelry! But....we waited and waited and waited for the collegues parents to call and finalize. We kept asking when they would call, kept getting assurances, but nothing. Finally, one night at about 10, we get a call. They can't do it. Never had planned to do it. Hadn't called because they were worried we'd be upset. Oh...I wouldn't have been upset if I knew two months ago, when it was first discussed. But now, we're at d-day. I have NO IDEA if we will be able to find someone to cook the pig now. We may have to rent a cooker, make everything else ourselves, and I'll get to spend my wedding day over the stove, hoping the fridge can hold everything, and running back and forth from the kitchen to make sure bowls stay full. Not to mention hoping we can find someone to tend the cooker while Organic Guy and I are getting dressed and hitched and all.

Then I took the beautiful paper and invitation text to Kinkos. Because, you know, I thought they could print things. No. They can't. The paper was too small (5x7 in case you're wondering). As I was talking to the lovely young lady helping me, I saw graduation invitation paper in a carousel behind me. 5x7 paper. So I asked. Okay, I said, If I buy THAT invitation paper, could you do it? Admittedly, I was thinking they were just yanking my chain and just wouldn't use MY paper, because it wasn't Kinkos-approved. She glanced up...Oh, THAT paper? Nope, couldn't do it. I have no idea why we even sell it because that happens all the time. Folks come in, and it's 'but I bought it HERE?!?! What do you mean you can't???' So, she was being honest and helpful. She really was lovely, and provided good service, except that they couldn't print for me. She even tried for me. No dice. And Kinkos has actually gone up in my estimation because of how helpful she was. I SO appreciate effort, even if for naught.

Finally, Organic Guy's parents aren't doing well. They've always been young for their age, active, relatively healty (they're mid/late 70's). But the last year-year and a half has been tough. And these past few weeks have brought undefined heart problems, muscle pain and fatigue, increased difficulty from arthritis in knees, ankles, and hips; just a whole host of things. I feel awful...they're great people, so welcoming and open, they put up with my quirks with a smile, and they're happy that Organic Guy is so happy. They love Organic Kid, and always make us feel welcomed, and a part of the family. So it hurts me to see them hurting. And knowing there's so little I can do. One time, many years ago, I read the phrase "Age comes to us all, and makes us equal." I'd throw that out flippantly all the time, responding to a variety of things. But now, age is coming to Organic Guy's folks. And yes, age is a great equalizer. And I HATE it. I HATE seeing such good people in pain, and frustrated by it, and that I really can't do anything but be there. But listen to them when they hurt. Help with little things when I can, like doing their dishes or folding laundry. It seems so little, though. They've raised this wonderful man, and they've let me take him for mine. And they accept me as theirs, too. And I feel helpless to help them. And, to reiterate, I HATE it.

Gary Oldman, okay, but DIANE KEATON???

2008-04-03T12:10:00.004-04:00

I mean really. I can handle that I look like a guy. I LIKE that I (according to this ridiculous website) look like Gillian Anderson, and Gary Oldman and Elton John, and Norma Shearer. But Diane Keaton is a HACK, and drives me NUTS! ARGH!

Is it Bad?

2008-03-28T15:50:00.004-04:00

Is it bad that I'm addicted to Craigslist? I really don't have money to buy anything right now; trying to save up for the wedding and all. I'm not currently selling anything. Organic Guy is, and I've helped him with posting everything; there isn't anything else to post, and no need to check on the postings, I KNOW they're okay. But I still find myself checking Craigslist at least once a day, and just randomly troll through different things. One time I might look at RV's, another at boats, sometimes apartments/houses for rent (although I LOVE my house), real estate for sale (but only over a certain dollar figure, because I'm totally a voyuer on that one), motorcycles, and at least once a week, I search for "organic" (that's sorta my job, but not really....).

So, am I just weird, or does anyone else do this?

Just Too Soon

2008-03-25T20:47:00.008-04:00

Okay, I mentioned that I'm little. Or at least small-ish. It's time to be honest, here's the full disclosure. I'm 5 feet tall. Yep, that's five-foot-nothing. When I was in elementary school, I was always the kid in the front row, all the way on the right. You other vertically challenged folk know what I mean. I'm SHORT. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

I have a 10 year old Organic Kid. She looks like me. A lot. Same eyes, smile, bone structure in her face. When we put our heads together, it's hard to tell where her hair ends and mine starts. BUT....her legs are all her dad's. He's 6'6". Yeah, you read that right. A foot and a half taller than me. And no, I'm not going to explain HOW other than to say I like yoga. I've always known that Organic Kid would be taller than me. I just WAS NOT prepared for this to happen while she was still in elementary school! And I just got a rude reminder. Her school was having a "wear your team colors!" day for the ACC basketball tourney (I know, I know, but this is what happens when you live on Tobacco Road). Unfortunately, we don't have any ACC gear at the Nest. I'm a Nebraska graduate (GO BIG RED!! HUSKER POWER!!). Organic Guy attended a few different universities, before graduating from Appalachian State (the Michigan-Beating Giant Killers! Can you say 3-peat??). So, no gear for NC State, or the Tar Heels, or for the love of all that is holy, NO DUKE!!!! So, we decided to improvise. Here is Organic Kid in her lovely "team gear."

She looks great, doesn't she. From a distance, you could almost believe this is an NC State Wolfpack shirt. And it fits so well! But...here's what bugs me:

Who do you suppose this shirt belongs to, the one that fits her so well? Let's see, it says "real women" not "real girls" or "real kids" or even "really really tall kids." It's a Huskers shirt (see the N logo?). Organic Kid has already expressed a desire to attend NC State (but she's 10, and that may change, like, 50 times in the next 8 years, so I can roll with that). Yes, without question, it's my shirt. Granted, I did give permission for her to wear it. But sheesh, you'd think it would be big and baggy on her or something. So, now, I've lost control of my shirts, next week, it'll likely be my shoes (she already has expressed a preference for my Harley Davidson motorcycle boot, if you please!), and next summer, I suppose I'll lose control of my light cotton skirts. Sigh. Like I said, I knew this would happen. But, I still wish she could be my little girl for just a bit longer....

Cleaning and Countertops

2008-03-21T15:59:00.002-04:00

I came to the conclusion last night that I am in desparate need of a compost bin. I don't care if it's a countertop one, or a under counter, or something in the yard. I'm just really tired of throwing away things that I don't have to throw away.

Last night, for example, I had ends of garlic, onion cores and skins, a dab of leftover rice, just the general food-stuff that doesn't get used and/or eaten. Rachael Ray's "trash bowl" if you please. I looked at the pile of leavings, and realized I'd have to throw it all away. I don't have a disposal (which wouldn't work for everything, anyway), and I don't have a dishwasher, so I'm pretty fanatical about scraping dishes before washing. And I could be composting all these scraps for my flowers and plants and the like. But I'm not. Because I've been lazy about getting a bin. This world has enough problems with people consuming too much and throwing stuff away. And here I am contributing to the problem. Some part of the organic community I turned out to be, eh? Okay...goal for the weekend...find a good countertop composter, and start using the darned thing! Anyone have any recommendations?

SNNNNZZZZZ

2008-03-20T09:24:00.000-04:00

I hate insomnia! I was up late last night, finishing up a project. I know I probably could have put it off until today, and gotten it done early. But other folks were waiting for me to finish, and I just can't leave stuff unfinished when it affects someone else. But, really, that isn't the point. Because it really wasn't that late that I finished. About 12:15 AM. After which time, I toddled off to brush my teeth and collapse into bed.

Organic Guy was deeply asleep. Deeply, snore-ily asleep. And he sleeps warm! I mean, like I have a space-heater in bed next to me warm. So, he's there happily sleeping, sounding like a buzz saw (poor guy, he has terrible allergies, and I think every tree in a 50-mile radius is currently pollinating), and generating the heat of a small sun. I lay down, thinking I'm exhausted, and as long as I'm not right up next to him, it should be okay. And it was, for a while. I dozed off, then woke up at 1 AM. Completely woke up, you know, feeling like I should be in the shower and getting ready for work awake. And I TRIED to get back to sleep, using every trick I could think of, thinking of every part of my body from toes to head, and imagining them heavier and more and more relaxed, until I fell asleep. Kind of a self-hypnosis. That just made me feel more awake...all that thinking. I counted sheep. I imagined curling up in a spot of sunshine on my comfy cozy couch like a cat. Nothing. I finally got up and tried to figure out what would help. HA! The Wednesday newspaper...that's dull, I've already read it. Nope. Still wide awake. Hmm...how about one of Organic Kid's books. Some of her favorite books are soooo badly written, it should be easy to fall asleep. Again, nope. Bored with the book, but not sleepy. Finally, if a fit of desperation, I found one of my old college textbooks. I had to dig thru a couple of boxes in the spare bedroom, but I was willing to do anything at that point! And a book on the suburbanization of Chicago was the key. Finally, at 3 AM-ish, snnzzzzz. Asleep, at last.

This morning, I am thanking every Goddess and God in every pantheon known to man for my wonderful little French Press I keep at the office, and for the stellar Organic Guatemala Huehuetenango from Royal Bean just up the road. Aaaahhhhhh, coffee bliss!

The first test

2008-03-19T14:54:00.000-04:00

So, this is a new attempt at blogging. And I'm betting you're wondering what the h*ll a wombat nest is! Well, for many years now, I've been called Wombat. Because they're smallish, burrowing creatures. And I'm smallish. And I've been accused of being a blanket bogart, and curling up in all the covers and not letting anyone else share. So. Wombat Nest. That's my and my home.

And that's all this blog will be about. Me, home, whatever occurs to me as I'm gazing at my navel. Go figure. Isn't that what pretty much all blogs are?